Producers from around the Humboldt area were able to take in some canola growing tips Thursday at Farm World.

Canola Council of Canada Agronomy Specialist Shawn Senko was the keynote speaker.

He said that genetics are changing everyday and the key is staying ahead of the curve.

"Being on top and making sure you are choosing the best variety genetic and trait package for your farm, making sure you are using the proper fertility requirements for your farm. Spray timings properly, getting that plant stand is key, making sure you get enough plants in that field."

The basis of Senko's presentation was tips and tools that can be used to consistently reach their goal of 52 bushels/acre of canola by the year 2025.

He mentioned some hindrances however, especially when it comes to disease concerns.

"The sclerotinia issue, it's an environmental disease, we see it come and go from year to year. Blackleg, just to be vigilant and make sure that's something we're checking our fields for. Clubroot, we see is a big problem in Alberta, it's been popping up in North Dakota. We see some in Manitoba so we've to be really vigilant here in Saskatchewan checking those fields and catching it early if we can."

Senko added the keys to reaching that goal are improvements in seeding and plant establishment, fertility and pest management, plus limiting losses.

Senko explained that the mark of 52 bushels/acre equals 26 million metric tonnes, or the mark earmarked through the industry's growth and the global demand.

You can hear more from Senko below as he talked to us and the Humboldt Journal following the event.